Delaying a Period

Some women may wish to delay a period. This may be if a period is due at a time that would be inconvenient; for example, on a special holiday, during an exam, etc. Delaying a period cannot be guaranteed but the following usually works.

Women taking the combined oral contraceptive pill

If you are taking a fixed-dose combined oral contraceptive pill (COCP - often just called 'the pill') then simply start the next pack without the usual 7-day break. Taking two packs back-to-back in this way is safe if it is done occasionally. You still only need to have a 7-day break at the end of these two packets.

If you are taking a triphasic or biphasic type of pill then you will need to take the last phase of the pills from the second pack immediately after finishing the first pack. Alternatively, you can change to a fixed-dose pill.

You should see your doctor or nurse if you are not sure which pill you are taking.

How does this work?

Women taking 'the pill' do not have normal periods. Rather, they are withdrawal bleeds which occur when the oestrogen in the pill is not taken. The hormones in the pill help to sustain the lining of the womb (uterus). The withdrawal bleed will not normally occur until the pill is stopped and the level of hormone in the body falls (usually once a month in the 7-day break between pill packs).

If you are not already taking 'the pill' then you may consider starting it if it is likely to be a suitable contraceptive for you in the future. You will have to start it a few weeks before your holiday though to ensure you do not have a period when you are away.

Women not taking 'the pill'

If you are not taking 'the pill' then a hormone tablet called norethisterone can be prescribed. The dose is 5 mg three times a day starting 3-4 days before a period is due. It can be continued for up to two weeks or so until you want to have a period. Your period will then normally begin 2-3 days after stopping it. Norethisterone is normally safe to take. However, if you have an increased risk of having a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) this method may not be suitable for you. Your doctor will be able to discuss this with you. Some women have side-effects such as bloating, stomach upset, breast discomfort and reduced sex drive (libido).

How does this work?

Norethisterone is a progestogen hormone. Progestogens are hormones that sustain the lining of the womb (uterus). Normally at the time before a period there is a fall in the level of progestogen hormone in the body. When it falls below a certain level, the lining of the uterus is shed as menstrual period. By taking norethisterone tablets (progestogen) the lining of the uterus is sustained until the tablet is stopped. Note: norethisterone taken in this way is not a contraceptive.